Parchin Kari - Marble Inlay

Marble Inlay 

The magnificent marble inlay work found on the walls and arches of the Taj Mahal in Agra is perhaps the most beautiful representation of the craft. The art of embedding finely-shaped gemstones in intricate patterns carved on marble surface has been carried out with utmost finesse across the exquisite mausoleum. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it was ornamented with inlay work by master artisans from Persia. The iconic white Makrana marble inlaid with semi-precious stones in mesmerising floral, calligraphical and geometric patterns stands testimony to their skills. Many of these artisans settled down in Agra after the completion of the Taj. Centuries later, their descendants are keeping the artform alive in the form of various artifacts such as marble inlay tables, chests, small tabletop curios, medallions, jewellery boxes, animal figurines and more. 

Although the time and place of its origin can be debated, marble inlay started gaining prominence in the 15th and 16th century and is believed to have spread from Italy to other parts of the world. Known as pietra dura in Italian, parchin kari in Persian or pacchikari in domestic artisans’ parlance, marble inlay has adorned many historic architectural buildings across the globe. The floors, walls, columns, tombs and altars of these monuments are inlaid with precious and semi-precious gemstones.  

Later, nobles and members of royal families started exchanging exclusive objet d’arts ornamented with inlay work as gifts. As the art form reached India, it flourished in a native style under the patronage of the Mughals. In India, the designs and patterns were influenced more by Persian and Islamic elements than Roman. Various Mughal-era monuments built during the 16th and 17th century carry elaborate pacchikari work. The most well-recognised amongst these is of course the Taj Mahal. It is fair to assert that a significant part of the popularity and stature that the craft enjoys in contemporary times, can be attributed to the Taj.  

The iconic monument which draws people from all over the world has helped the art form thrive in the streets of Agra. Numerous workshops employing several artisans can be found in the narrow lanes surrounding the Taj itself. Inspired by the monument, these artisans create beautiful marble inlay products ranging from small mementos to customised large pieces of furniture and decor items. Their base material of choice is usually the same Makrana marble used in building the Taj Mahal. The ivory white marble comes from Makrana in Rajasthan. It is well-known for its lasting sheen and distinct attribute of being nearly non-porous. The inlay work is done using authentic gemstones such as the blue lapis lazuli, reddish-orange cornelian, green malachite, turquoise along with vibrant-coloured mother of pearl and paua shells. Embedded in different patterns, they burst life into curated artefacts. The wide range of items available offer a plethora of gifting options for your loved ones back home or for weddings gifts as well as house-warming gifts. A gift that shall always be well appreciated, after all, it carries the stamp of royalty.